I have a confession.  When I first got texting capabilities on my phone, I stood on my high and mighty soapbox, sworn never to degrade myself to perform what I call “text speak.”  You know, like, “When will u b home?”  No sir, not for me.  My texts would always be properly formatted and grammatically correct.  I am a writer, after all.

Well, that  lack of realism lasted for about two days.  Now, I happily hack and cut the English language…on my phone and to my kids.  The simplicity is refreshing and saves my thumbs unneeded misery.  However, there is a problem that is creeping into our society.

Some people seem to think that is really the way we communicate.

When it comes to your job search activities, this is a particularly compelling subject.  Interviewers become annoyed when they receive unsolicited texts from job candidates.  Especially when they are in text speak.  “Thanx for the gr8 interview!!”  I can almost promise you this will not merit you a second interview.  If the interviewer requested that you send him a text, do so.  But, make sure the sentences are full length, capitalization and punctuation correct.

If you wish to write a thank you note for an interview, do so…on notepaper. Draft a few versions, let someone review it and listen to their feedback.  It is a shame when people lose their credibility as a candidate because of a few sloppily formed sentences.  Of course, I understand there are times when speed is of the essence, such as when you know a hiring decision will be made that afternoon.  That may require you write the note after the interview and leave it with a receptionist or assistant.  Still, go to a quiet place, organize your thoughts and write a draft on scrap paper.  Mention specifics and how your skills meet the needs of the company.  Copy into your final format only after you are sure your message is clear and concise.

 I luv text speak on my phone, but I dont luv it @ any other time.